Lopez to replace Jani at Dragon Racing

Jose-Maria Lopez is due to return to Formula E next weekend in Marrakesh replacing the recently vacant seat of Neel Jani at Dragon Racing.

After two races, with two 18th places, Jani and team boss Jay Penske came to a decision over the Christmas break to terminate their partnership with Jani saying “As a result of changes that were unforeseen, Dragon Racing and I have decided that it is in the best interest for the future of the team and myself that we end out alliance.”

Lopez is reported to be taking Jani’s seat, despite no official confirmation from the Dragon Racing team, next weekend at the Marrakesh E-Prix alongside Jerome d’Ambrosio. Lopez raced for DS Virgin Racing in the FIA Formula E Championship last season where he secured two podiums despite being replaced by Alex Lynn in September.

It is unclear at this time whether Lopez will continue with the American based team after the double header at Marrakesh next weekend, however this season his commitments with the FIA World Endurance Championship will not clash like they did last year.

Neither of Dragon Racing test drivers, Maximilian Gunther and Andrea Caldarelli, due to take part in the rookie test next Sunday in Marrakesh are eligible to compete in this season’s championship as they don’t hold a Formula-E licence. This may leave the seat clear for Lopez to continue with the team for the remainder of the 2017/2018 season.

Official confirmation on Lopez’s position in the Dragon Racing team is expected in the coming days.